Dusted Valley 'Boomtown' Merlot, Washington

Born from the sweeping vineyards of Horse Heaven Hills, the 2022 Dusted Valley Boomtown Merlot brings together the power of Washington’s landscape with the precision of thoughtful, small-lot winemaking. Crafted from fruit grown along the Columbia River, this vibrant Merlot captures the region’s sun-soaked character while delivering a polished, fruit-driven style ready for any occasion.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Chad Johnson and Corey Braunel
• Grape Composition: 93% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot
• Alcohol Content: 13.9% ABV
• Total Acidity: 5.4 g/L
• pH: 3.81
• Vineyard Source: Primarily The Cliffs Vineyard, with 10–15% estate fruit from Dusted Valley
• Oak Program: Aged in 20% new French oak barrels

Sensory Description:

This Merlot opens with inviting aromas of cedar, black currants, and dark chocolate. On the palate, soft tannins frame ripe black fruit and subtle oak-driven spice, creating a medium-bodied wine with smooth texture and immediate drinkability. The wine’s balanced structure and polished finish make it an effortlessly enjoyable Washington State red.

Winemaker's Background:

Dusted Valley Vintners was founded in 2003 by brothers-in-law Chad Johnson and Corey Braunel, who left Wisconsin to pursue their dream in Washington’s Walla Walla Valley. Together, they farm estate vineyards with sustainable practices, focusing on modest yields and minimal intervention to produce wines that reflect a true sense of place. Under both the Dusted Valley and Boomtown labels, the family-run winery produces a diverse range of Bordeaux- and Rhône-inspired wines. Dusted Valley also features a distinctive oak program, incorporating barrels sourced from their Wisconsin roots near the 45th parallel, which blends tradition and innovation in each bottling.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16–18°C in a Bordeaux glass to highlight its ripe fruit and supple structure. Ideal pairings include roasted lamb, grilled steak, barbecue ribs, wild mushroom risotto, and aged cheddar.

The 2022 Dusted Valley Boomtown Merlot delivers a beautifully balanced, fruit-forward Merlot that celebrates both the Columbia Valley’s unique terroir and the passion of the Dusted Valley family’s winemaking journey.